One of the things I love about vintage dresses is how unique they are, especially when you encounter homemade ones in larger sizes. I’m always in awe of how even homemade pieces as far back as the 1930’s stand the test of time so well, as well as all of the amazing construction skills that went into them. This is one of my favorites, as it’s such a quirky little dress. The print on the bodice reminds me of Pucci prints from the 1960’s, but the silhouette and construction details are throughly War Era. The shoulder puff is created by a mini-shoulderpad attached under the seam, while the fabric buttons match the amazing bodice fabric. While this would be a lot of dress if it was entirely made from the print section, the navy blue offsets it well and makes it a really easy piece to wear on a regular basis for me. It pulls over the head (a reasonably common design in that era) so it needs a belt, but it also makes it a really convenient piece to throw on when I don’t feel like fussing with lots of buttons or zippers.

While you can tell it was clearly homemade due to some slightly crooked seams and uneveness, I feel like I’m wearing a totally unique piece of history when I wear this out. It also elicits a lot of compliments and questions, so it can be a great way to spark people’s interest in vintage fashions as well.

What are your favorite vintage prints? What are the most unique/bizarre vintage dresses that you’ve come across?

Terrific outfit! I see a Puchi vibe to this print as well. It’s such a fun dress and the handmade elements make it all the more (I love them in vintage pieces as well – it ups the garment’s character big time).

Holly(author)

August 26, 2015 at 6:36 am

I think it’s interesting how handmade pieces are usually sold with the flaws advertised – slightly crooked seams, etc. To me it just makes them extra charming! You can tell someone put serious love into this one and I’m glad to have it.